Major Changes in Criminal Law that Will Directly Affect You

Last Updated on February 15, 2024 by Nasir Hanif

A criminal conviction can have long-term effects on your life. The legal ramifications can even harm your loved ones, depending on the crime you have been convicted of. Thankfully, you can avoid a conviction when you hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer Knoxville, TN who is committed to helping you clear your names and avoid possible penalties. They will work hard to establish a powerful case, so you will be found not guilty by a jury.  

What Charges Can Your Lawyer Defend You Against?

No matter the specific charges you are facing, your attorney will represent you. Below are some of the crimes your defense lawyer can defend you against:

Sex crimes.

A sex crime charge like sexual assault, rape, prostitution, solicitation, or indecent exposure can have you facing serious consequences when convicted. 

DUI.

When you drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs and cause a fatal vehicle crash, you need a skilled attorney to defend you. A DUI conviction can require you to pay fines or spend time in jail.

Drug crimes.

A drug crime charge should not be taken lightly because you can spend time in prison for many years when convicted. 

Burglary or theft.

A theft and burglary charge occurs when you are accused of entering another person’s property intending to steal or committing a felony. 

Criminal Penalties

The penalties you may face when convicted depend on the crime you are charged with. For example, a DUI conviction can have you facing up to $15 000 in fines and up to 8 years of license revocation. A sex crime conviction can result in you spending up to thirty years in prison.

Convictions for violent crimes like murder could have you spend the rest of your life in jail or face the death penalty when you commit capital murder. No matter your crime, you must work with an experienced attorney to ensure you have a solid team that is willing to do everything to get you absolved of the charges.

Creating a Strong Defense Strategy

Getting a not guilty verdict is not easy. But, the prosecutor has the burden of proof to establish your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Your attorney knows how to put doubt in the jury’s mind that you are guilty of your charges. 

A knowledgeable lawyer can give the jury or judge some alternative theories regarding what happened on the day the offense was allegedly committed. They will examine the facts and circumstances of your case to determine the defense strategy to ensure a favorable outcome. 

Overview

An experienced criminal defense lawyer can differentiate between a conviction and an acquittal. When facing criminal charges, having a skilled attorney by your side can help you navigate the legal system and avoid the consequences of a conviction, such as incarceration, fines, and a criminal record.

A good defense lawyer will examine the evidence against you to determine its admissibility and credibility. They will look for any procedural errors or violations of your rights that could lead to the dismissal of charges or a reduction in charges. They will also investigate to gather evidence and witness statements supporting your defense.

Throughout the legal process, a criminal defense lawyer will advocate for your rights and work to negotiate plea deals or alternative sentencing options that are more favorable to you. They will also prepare you for trial, including helping you understand each option’s potential outcomes and consequences.

In addition to legal expertise, an experienced criminal defense lawyer deeply understands the court system and the personalities involved. They know how to negotiate with prosecutors, judges, and juries, and they can use their relationships and reputation to build a strong defense on your behalf.